Busselton Jetty Underwater Sculpture Park officially opened at VIP event

Busselton Jetty hosted a spectacular VIP event for the opening of Western Australia’s first Underwater Sculpture Park last Thursday.

The launch, attended by guests including WA Chief Scientist and Lotterywest chair Professor Peter Klinken, Liberal leader Libby Mettam, MLC Jackie Jarvis, MP Nola Marino and deputy mayor Anne Ryan marked a significant milestone for the jetty.

The launch also welcomed sculpture artists, members of the business community and various other dignitaries who recognised the cultural and environmental significance of the project.

The VIP event featured a diverse range of activities, including a culinary experience curated by award-winning executive chef Tony Howell, a guided snorkel tour of the sculpture park, a solar-powered train ride and a private tour of the Underwater Observatory.

“The Underwater Sculpture Park stands as a testament to the community’s dedication to the preservation of our natural treasures,” Ms Shreeve said. “This new addition to the jetty is a remarkable fusion of art, tourism, and marine conservation.”

Cheryl Smyth, of the Tourism Council of Western Australia, was also at the launch event.

“The Underwater Sculpture Park has really extended the appeal of the Busselton Jetty, not only for visitors, but also the local community,” Ms Smyth said.

After a speech that celebrated the iconic Busselton Jetty, Ms Jarvis proclaimed “it’s open” to an enthusiastic round of applause.

Professor Klinken expressed his admiration for the initiative.

“The Busselton Jetty Underwater Sculpture Park is a testament to the intersection of art, culture and conservation, showcasing Western Australia’s commitment to marine preservation,” he said.

Ms Marino said he really enjoyed the private tour of the Underwater Observatory.

“I had the chance to see the sculptures before they were installed, I’m certain this unique new attraction will bring in even more visitors to the jetty,” she said.

Bunbury-based artist David Barbour, who designed and built The Lighthouse sculpture, took part in the snorkelling tour of the Sculpture Park.

Busselton artist Georgia Zoric, who works with ceramics and whose sculpture The Postmaster General is also part of the art installation, also completed the snorkel tour.

Ms Zoric explained how proud she was to be involved in the project.

“Its an incredible artistic and environmental venture,” she said. “I put habitat jars at the base of the sculpture and they are already full of life.

“The Postmaster sculpture is ceramic, which is a perfect material for a marine environment, there is already growth on him, he’s looking very fuzzy.”

As WA’s premier eco-tourism destination with more than 700,000 visitors per year, Busselton Jetty continues to innovate and contribute to the region’s appeal for adventure, conservation, and family-friendly activities

Chair of BJI, Natasha Teakle, shared her enthusiasm for the project.

“This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to eco-tourism, low-impact travel and the preservation of marine ecosystems,” Dr Teakle said. “We are excited to offer visitors a unique experience that combines artistic expression with environment awareness.”